ROCKPORT — The last time philanthropist Neal Jacobs hosted a birthday party fundraiser, the Rockport Public Library gift fund received a sizable boost. Now, only two years later, Jacobs is at it again, but this time the chief beneficiary will be the Rockport Art Association's Buildings Renovation Program.
Jacobs celebrated his 92nd birthday last Wednesday with family, but will celebrate again Sunday at the Rockport Art Association with a "fundraising challenge" birthday party from 5 to 8 p.m., open to all Cape Ann residents.
The Rockport Art Association is a nonprofit organization with three buildings, all part of the Historic District. The association began a massive, three-year restoration project this year, which includes installing three new roofs and repairs the facade of the Tavern Ship Building, which was erected in 1787.
"The idea is to get more people, not just the art lovers, but the general population, to know the value and importance of the Rockport Art Association," said Jacobs yesterday. "I hope with the matching grant that we get small amounts of money from a lot of people. The place needs a new roof and I want people to give so I can give."
There is no entrance fee, but guests will receive a raffle ticket for every $5 donation. Jacobs has agreed to match what's received up to $10,000.
Raffle prizes include original works of art, prints, gift certificates, jewelry, gift baskets and more.
"Obviously we are thrilled, this is a great boost," association director Carol Linsky said yesterday. "We are so grateful to Neal for doing this; he is a lifetime member of the RAA and cares very deeply for the association and for the town of Rockport."
Linsky estimated the project would cost $150,000 to $200,000.
Jacobs sent out his public birthday invitation in advertisements he took out in the Times. The Jewett Street resident remains active, though he walks with the aid of two light canes because of problems with his back and one of his two replacement hips.
Jacobs had a long career in business before retiring. His first job was as a secretary in the 1940s after graduating from Harvard University and Babson College's graduate program. He worked at a tannery during World War II before going to work at is father's shoe company. He owned a Stride Rite children's shoe store in Needham from the 1960s until he sold it in 1980, he said.
Jacobs happened to be at a Historic District Committee meeting recently that Linsky and other association members also attended. Because its buildings are in the Historic District, the association must get the Historic District Committee's approval before making any changes to the exteriors.
Linsky told the committee the Tavern Ship Building needed new electrical wiring and lights and a fresh coat of paint. The building renovation project also calls for the Maddocks building to receive new shingles and for repairs to the roof dormers and facade of the 12 Main St. building.
It was at that meeting that Jacobs approached Linsky with the idea of a matching grant fundraiser.
"He is a wonderful supporter of the art association," Linsky said. "He has been very good to us over the years. He doesn't just say things, Neal acts on his beliefs."
Linsky said the association's efforts to raise enough money to replace the roofs over the Hibbard and Maddocks galleries and their connecting passageway were successful.
Association employee Joanna Read said anyone unable to attend the event can send donations directly to the Rockport Art Association earmarked as the Neal Jacobs Matching Grant.
Winners do not need to be present to win a prize.
Jonathan L'Ecuyer can be reached at jlecuyer@gloucestertimes.com.
If you gor What: 92nd birthday party for Neal Jacobs to benefit the Rockport Art Association.
r When: Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m.r Where: Rockport Art Association, 12 Main Street, Rockport, Ma.r Contact information: Neal Jacobs, (978) 546-6164; P.O. Box 143, Rockport, MA 01966.
r To donate: Make checks payable to the Rockport Art Association with 'Neal Jacobs Matching Grant' on the memo line.
